Traveling in your RV isn’t just a summertime activity! When traveling in the winter, you can discover so many things that the warm weather doesn’t offer. It is important to remember that there are a few differences when thinking about winter travel, especially when running into unexpected snow, ice, and other chilly predicaments. There are three easy measures to take that can help make your RV expeditions in the winter much safer: make a plan, be prepared, and have some help!
Make A Plan
When making your travel plan there are a few things to keep in mind: where’s your end destination, what’s the weather forecast, what will you be using to navigate, and will you need to schedule stops for the bathroom, food, and for gas?
It’s always important to check ahead of time to make sure the place you are headed to isn’t at full capacity. It’s always a smart idea to book a room/lot ahead of time. Planning ahead is a huge part of RV traveling especially in the winter. You don’t want to get caught in a snowstorm with nowhere to go.
The next topic to keep in mind is the weather forecast. If you can help yourself from getting caught in a snowstorm it is best to do so. Flexibility is a vital part of RV winter traveling. When the weather is unpredictable, you can’t expect to have a rigid itinerary that will never change. If the forecast mentions snowstorms or any type of snowfall, it might be smart to delay travel and take driving slowly.
The next thing to think about is what you will be using to navigate. The navigation apps on all smartphones are a very common function for drivers. Another option is a GPS device like Garmin®. Garmin® has released GPS systems specifically created for RV driving. For all of these operations, all you need to do is put in your end location and it will direct you with on-the-go driving instructions.
When stopping for the bathroom, food, and gas it is essential to plan ahead. The navigation systems mentioned above can help suggest gas stations and restaurants that are along the route as well. Gas is the most important aspect to stay on top of because it is imperative to keep your gas tank full. If unexpected weather comes up, you want to make sure you are prepared with food and gas.
These planning ideas and more can be found at KOA.com.
Be Prepared
It is essential to always be prepared for unexpected complications, especially when there is a possibility of getting caught in winter weather. There are a few purchases you can make and procedures you can follow to help make driving safer.
Many RV drivers recommend tire chains! In many states, it is required for RV drivers to have them on their vehicles during the winter months. Snow chains will help when unexpected ice is on the road, when the snow starts to fall, and in other situations.
Another easy precaution is to familiarize yourself with how an RV drives since it isn’t the same as driving a car. RV’s are rear-wheel driving instead of front-wheel driving like your car is. Make sure to keep an abundant amount of space between you and the car in front of you, especially when there is a chance of ice on the road. If your RV is diesel, it is a good idea to turn off the exhaust brake. If this is left on, there is a higher chance of your vehicle veering off of the road.
Being smart and taking these slow is always the best way to prepare yourself! Focus on getting to the destination safely and slowly, instead of as soon as possible. Use smart winter driving judgment: use low beam lights to increase visibility with snow and don’t be afraid to stop in order to wait out the unpredictable climate!
All of this and more can be found at Blue Dog RV.com.
Have Some Help
It’s also easier to drive with a co-pilot! A person in the passenger seat can help with directions, keep the driver company, and handle other controls and complications so that the driver can focus on the road. An extra set of eyes is always super helpful in stormy or snowy weather. The passenger can do anything from changing the station on the radio to keeping an extra eye on the taillights in front of you during an intense snowfall. When there is a chance of snowy or icy conditions, it’s always a great idea to have someone there helping the driver along the way!
Enjoy Yourself!
Use this travel time to discover new landmarks, learn new things, and spend time with loved ones! Winter RV travel can bring you unexpected weather and cold climates, but if you have fun, are flexible, and take things slow you will create memories that will be remembered forever. The winter months can show you things that no other season can! This winter take some time to think about where you can go and what you can explore while remembering to make a plan, be prepared, and have some help!
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